Luke, the Horse Simulator & Some Other Random Stuff

I am so disappointed.  

The Kaweah Chapter of CDS scheduled a clinic for Barbro Ask-Upmark and her horse, Luke.  Luke is not a real horse; instead he's a simulator wired with some super sensitive sensors that allow the rider to "see" how effective her legs and seat are.  Luke is connected to a computer and screen which lets the rider "move" around the arena.  Since Luke can't make any decisions on his own, it is the rider who must control every movement he makes.  To see Luke in action, watch this.

The clinic was supposed to happen this weekend.  I mailed in my entry weeks ago in anticipation of the event.  I just got word that the clinic has been cancelled due to a lack of participation.  Deep sigh. 

Internet photo of Luke and a rider

In other news, Tuesday was a busy day for my boys.  They started the morning off with Jaime Osbrink, World's Greatest Farrier.  He's been doing Speedy's feet for several years so his feet always look great.  Sydney only came to me last July so Jaime has had just one year to work on his feet. This was the very first time that Jaime has actually liked the way Sydney's feet were looking. 

I recognize a balanced shoe job when I see one, but I can't really articulate what makes it good.  According to Jaime, Sydney's feet are finally as long as they are wide.  The toe has come back and he's getting some decent heels.  Look at the them for yourself.  Both photos are of his left front.  By the way, both boys get their feet done every five to six weeks.

Width and length are improving

I like his toe length, but he does need more heel.

After their morning pedicures, the boys got a visit from the chiropractor. I've been searching for someone local for about a year as my last chiropractic contact sort of dried up.  Jaime was actually the one who recommended this guy.  Jaime gave me his number and four hours later he was at the barn.  Not much beats same day service.

Sorry their are no photos, but CC was a little camera shy.  You'll just have to take my word for it that he did a great job.  Both ponies felt much better after his work.  Sydney had the cutest goofy eyes when he was done.  His neck was hanging, his ears were flopping, and his back legs were cocked in utter relaxation.  While Speedy was also appreciative, he wasn't about to let everyone know just how much he liked it.  The boy's got a reputation to protect after all.

If you're local and you'd like CC's contact info, send me an email here or private message me on Facebook.  I'd be happy to pass along his number.

Pedis and massages ... these boys are livin' the life!